Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated today (Tuesday) that the IDF will remain at the summit of Mount Hermon and in the security zone for an indefinite period to ensure the security of the Golan Heights, northern Israel, and all Israeli citizens. He made the statement during a visit to IDF positions at the peak of Mount Hermon, where he conducted a situational assessment with Division Commander Brig. Gen. Yair Plai and the Commander of Brigade 810, Col. L.
"I came here to ensure that the IDF is well-prepared for both defense and offense, for a prolonged stay at the Hermon outposts," Katz said. "We will not return to the reality of October 7, and we will not rely on others for our defense – here or anywhere else. We only rely on the commanders and soldiers of the IDF, both regular and reserve, to provide security to the people of Israel."
The Defense Minister outlined Israel's security policy in Syria and made clear that the IDF will prevent the establishment of hostile forces in the area between Mount Hermon and the Suwayda-Damascus road. "We will act against any threat," Katz emphasized, adding that Israel will maintain contact with friendly populations in the region, "with an emphasis on the large Druze population, who have close historical and familial ties with our Druze brothers, Israeli citizens - to whom the State of Israel is primarily committed."
